Early morning arrival in Yerevan. Transfer to the hotel. Today we explore the Armenian capital, situated in the shadow of the biblical Mount Ararat, and one of the oldest capitals in the world. We visit the village of Mussa Ler, where survivors of the Musa Dagh massacre were settled. This story was extensively described by Austrian writer Franz Werfel in his book "The Forty Days of Musa Dagh." Next, we head to Etchmiadzin, the religious center of the country and the seat of the Catholicos, the head of the Armenian Church. (Visit to the main cathedral (entrance included) dating from 303), and a walk through the park adorned with beautiful cross-stones. Visit the Church of Surb Hripsimé (7th century), built on the site of the martyrdom of the legendary nun, and a masterpiece of classical Armenian architecture. In the evening, a visit to the cafes and bars around the main square is worthwhile! Overnight stay in Yerevan Boutique Hotel Villa Aygedzor 3*

Our destination today is dominated by the biblical Mount Ararat. At the foot of the mountain stands the Khor Virap Monastery (entrance included), near the closed border with Turkey. No other monastery in Armenia is as closely linked with the legend of Saint Gregory as this one. Nowhere else does the Ararat seem so close at hand. At the center of the complex is the Mother of God Church, designed as a typical cross-dome church. We also see the dungeon of the important saint. Drive to the Noravank Monastery, which is almost indistinguishable from its rocky surroundings at sunset due to its reddish facade. This building is particularly associated with John the Baptist. Enjoy a beautiful hike from the picturesque Noravank Monastery to the village of Areni. Today we also have the opportunity to taste the famous Armenian wine Areni at a local winery. Ascent: 300 m Descent: 400 m Trail: approx. 8 km Overnight stay at Hotel Lucy 4* in the village of Hermon.

Today we hike to the 10th-century Smbataberd Fortress. From afar, we can see this castle perched high on the mountain peak. We explore the powerful ruins of the former Smbat Fortress (entrance included). From there, we have a magnificent view. We then continue hiking to the Tsakhats Kar Church. Descent to the village of Eghegis. Ascent: 700 m Descent: 700 m Trail: approx. 12 km Overnight stay at Hotel Lucy 4* in the village of Hermon.

From Herher, we drive to the village of Karmrashen, nestled in a beautiful setting. From here, we hike to Mount Vayots Dzor and continue to the very picturesque and high Ketschut Reservoir. We then proceed to the town of Jermuk, known for its hot thermal springs. A walk and visit of the spa town, which is situated at about 2000 meters. Overnight stay in Jermuk Ascent: 600 m Descent: 700 m Trail: 16 km Hotel Nairi 4*

Today we hike along a picturesque trail through meadows and forests, passing small streams and springs. The path is mostly flat, with beautiful views inviting us to linger. In a very remote location, the Tatev Monastery, one of the leading medieval scientific centers of the country, was established from the 9th century. After a visit (entrance included), we will experience riding the longest cable car in the world—built by an Austrian-Swiss consortium! Overnight stay in Sisian Ascent: 600 m Descent: 600 m Trail: approx. 16 km Hotel Basen 3*

Along the former Silk Road, we visit a 14th-century caravanserai at the Selim Pass. We then hike through entirely different landscapes to Mount Armaghan (2840 m), an extinct volcano. From the summit, we have a stunning view of the largest lake in Armenia and Mount Ararat. We continue to the beautifully situated Lake Sevan, the "Blue Pearl of Armenia," in the high mountains. Ascent: 450 m Descent: 500 m Trail: approx. 17 km Overnight stay at Green Hill Guesthouse 3*

A beautiful hike through the mountainous landscape to the Haghartsin Monastery, built between the 11th and 13th centuries. This significant monastery, constructed from limestone, is located in a forested area and has been captivating travelers with its beauty for centuries. We enjoy the view with a longer break at the end of the gorge, high up in the mountains. After the visit, we drive to the center of Dilijan, where we can admire 19th-century architecture. Overnight stay in Dilijan Ascent: 300 m Descent: 300 m Trail: approx. 10 km Green Hill Guesthouse 3*

Visit the "impregnable" Amberd Fortress (7th century) (entrance included) at the foot of the highest mountain in the country, Aragats (4095 m). This is one of the best-preserved fortresses in Armenia, situated at about 2300 m. From there, we hike to the Dgher Monastery. The trail takes us through rugged terrain down to a gorge with basalt formations. At the end of the gorge, as a contrast, we find beautiful meadows dotted with flowers. Descent: 1000 m Trail: approx. 12 km Overnight stay at Aragats Guesthouse 4*

We drive to the 3,200 m high Kar Lake, a glacier lake nestled in the volcanic massif of Mount Aragats. Our goal is the West Summit at 4,020 m, which we reach in about a 4-hour hike. From the crater rim of this massive volcano, we overlook the Armenian Highlands. In the background, the snowfields of Ararat glow. With heavy hearts, we make our way back to Yerevan. Ascent/Descent: 800 m Overnight stay at Boutique Hotel Villa Aygedzor 3*